Schatz: FEMA Approval Of Vaccine Distribution Reimbursement For Hawai‘i Will Save State Up To $175 Million

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) released the following statement on the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) agreement to reimburse up to $175 million to the State of Hawai‘i for certain vaccine distribution expenses. FEMA announced today it has already reimbursed half of the approved amount to the state, providing more than $87 million. Reimbursable expenses cover emergency protective measures, including supplies and personnel needed to safely transport, store, and administer COVID-19 vaccines.

“This is great news for Hawai‘i. It will keep the state’s vaccination program running and free up state and county resources that can be used to do more to help fight the pandemic and support local people,” said Senator Schatz, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

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